Surgery is in 4 days and I'm worried about taking the cervix; myomectomy question

I am scheduled for TVH for a grapefruit sized fibroid which has been causing physical problems & pain for several years with the symptoms worsening, I am also having prolapse issues, such as cystocele, rectocyle & uterus has prolapsed. What I am very worried about is that due to my losing my job recently, we are rushing into the procedure due to my insurance ending at the end of the month. From the forums I have been reading and research, I am hearing alot about sexual disfuction after removing the uterus & cervix. My husband & I have a wonderful sex life now & we are both very worried about having this effect us for the rest of our lives. Also can you be eligible for a myomectomy as well as having the prolapse issues fixed vaginally? The DR I am seeing (male) says cervix doesn't play a role in orgasim...

Have you had a second opinion about what your options are? If not, I would strongly suggest one before you have surgery! A hysterectomy is a major, irreversible surgery that is not without risks so you don't want to rush into if you have options!

It is my understanding that when there are prolapse issues, keeping the cervix may not be in your best interest as the cervix is already causing issues! The cervix is not a separate body organ but rather is the neck of the uterus. I also know that the uterine suspension is possible. However, I do not know if that is an option for you, along with the repairs you need. I also do not know if you are a candidate for a myomectomy. Please talk to a GYN who could answer these questions for you.

From personal experience I can tell you that neither I or my DH have ever noticed that my cervix is missing. I no longer have uterine contractions with orgasms, but that was to be expected. Otherwise, nothing has changed. My cervix had to be removed because of endometriosis and I don't miss it a bit!

You may find this article helpful: Total Versus Sub-Total Hysterectomy .

A hysterectomy can affect you for the rest of your life so you are wise to be asking some questions before surgery. I had surgical complications and I can tell you it was not fun and they lasted for a very long time.

I wish you all the best as you weigh the pros and cons for you. We will not all make the same decisions but we need to be sure we make the right one for us!

I had a TAH/BSO almost nine weeks ago. I had my cervix removed. I have to admit I was concerned about how my intimacy would be with my husband also, but I am happy to say that if anything my orgasms are more intense then before the surgery. I do not miss anything that was removed and I am very happy now that I am getting my pain free life back.

It never hurts to get a second opinion if you are questioning your Dr. My doctor is a male also, but came very highly recommended.

Hi erorourke

Wow. It sounds like you need more time to fully explore your options--yet time isn't something you have a lot of right now. Have you talked with your doctor about all of your options? If a myomectomy is an option and could give you even a year of relief (hopefully more), that would give you time to get back on your feet.

I had a TVH for a fibroid that was causing severe pain. Two year earlier, I did have a very small (1 cm) fibroid removed a couple years ago through the vagina. It was a submucosal fibroid on the internal surface of the uterus. Other kinds of fibroids cannot be removed vaginally. I don't know about the prolapse and repair issues, but I'm sure someone will be along soon with some experience in that.

A hysterectomy is not automatically the end of a good sex life. Some women do experience problems, and it is important to be aware of these. However, many women do quite well sexually after the surgery. I am doing just fine without my uterus and cervix. Our sex life is better than before my surgery because I no longer experience such horrible pain.

Talk with your doctor about what your options truly are. If you go ahead with the scheduled surgery, I hope you find in the fact that we will be right here with you.

I'm sending huge to you.

Short answer. Amazingly, for me, there is minimal difference to sexual response. TAH/BSO. Sorry to hear of your stressors, in your case, re your medical symptoms and insurance situation, I wouldn't hesitate to go ahead.
All the best.